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Classic Italian Sunday Dinner Recipes for Family Gatherings

Gather your loved ones and enjoy the heartwarming tradition of an Italian Sunday dinner.

From rich, flavorful pasta dishes topped with savory sauce to crusty bread, fresh salads, and perfectly seasoned meats, this meal is all about bringing family together around the table to share love and laughter.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to indulge in comforting flavors, we’ve got you covered with the best traditional Italian dishes.

Don’t forget to explore our quick and easy dinner recipes for even more inspiration to keep the whole family satisfied!

What is an Italian Sunday Dinner?  

This meal is centered around family and food. It typically features a multi-course meal with hearty, homemade dishes. This meal isn’t just about eating; it’s about slowing down and enjoying those around you. It often includes comforting classics like pasta, different types of meat, salads, and freshly baked bread, all served with love and care.  

What is a Traditional Italian Sunday Dinner?  

  • Antipasto – A variety of appetizers, such as cured meats, cheeses, olives, and bruschetta.  
  • Primo (First Course) – A pasta dish, risotto, or soup, often featuring rich sauces or seasonal ingredients.  
  • Secondo (Main Course) – Roasted or braised meats like beef, lamb, or chicken, accompanied by sides of roasted vegetables.  
  • Contorno (Side Dish) – Simple salads or cooked greens to complement the main dish.  
  • Dolce (Dessert) – Traditional Italian dessert recipes such as Tiramisu, cannoli, or panna cotta are popular sweet endings.  
  • Coffee and Digestivo – Espresso or liqueurs like limoncello to round off the meal.  
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Spice Classics Italian Seasoning, 6 oz - One 6 Ounce Container of Italian Seasoning Spice for Authentic Italian Cooking, Perfect in Sauces, Vegetables, Pasta Dishes, Pizza and More
10 Strawberry Street Simply White 36 Oz Pasta/Dinner Bowl, Set of 6
Cuisinart Stainless Steel Pasta Server
T-fal Specialty Stainless Steel Stockpot 12 Quart Oven Safe 350F Pots and Pans, Cookware Silver
U.S. Kitchen Supply - Premium Quality Over The Sink Stainless Steel Oval Colander with Fine Mesh 6 Quart Strainer Basket & Expandable Rubber Grip Handles - Strain, Drain, Rinse Fruits, Vegetables
OXO Good Grips Pasta Scoop Strainer,Gray
Product
Italian Seasoning
Pasta Bowls
Pasta Spoon
Stock Pot
Strainer
Pasta Scoop
$6.16
$23.99
Price not available
$39.99
$19.99
$16.92
Spice Classics Italian Seasoning, 6 oz - One 6 Ounce Container of Italian Seasoning Spice for Authentic Italian Cooking, Perfect in Sauces, Vegetables, Pasta Dishes, Pizza and More
Product
Italian Seasoning
$6.16
10 Strawberry Street Simply White 36 Oz Pasta/Dinner Bowl, Set of 6
Product
Pasta Bowls
$23.99
Cuisinart Stainless Steel Pasta Server
Product
Pasta Spoon
Price not available
T-fal Specialty Stainless Steel Stockpot 12 Quart Oven Safe 350F Pots and Pans, Cookware Silver
Product
Stock Pot
$39.99
U.S. Kitchen Supply - Premium Quality Over The Sink Stainless Steel Oval Colander with Fine Mesh 6 Quart Strainer Basket & Expandable Rubber Grip Handles - Strain, Drain, Rinse Fruits, Vegetables
Product
Strainer
$19.99
OXO Good Grips Pasta Scoop Strainer,Gray
Product
Pasta Scoop
$16.92
What time is Italian Sunday dinner?

Typically the meal begins in the early afternoon, around 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, depending on the family and its traditions. It’s often a leisurely event, stretching over several hours. The midday start allows time to relax and digest while still leaving the evening open for family time or light snacks.

Craving a delicious, hearty meal? Try these pasta recipes that are perfect for any occasion or make your holiday meals extra special with these Christmas pasta recipes!

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    bolognese sauce

      Sunday Italian Dinner Recipes

      Sunday just got tastier! Discover our Italian Sunday Dinner ideas for a hearty and unforgettable meal with your loved ones.

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